Had the issue concerned the line between the posts, technology would have given a definitive signal.

“All it needs is for the system to be adapted to include the whole length of the goal line and I know the means to do this are already in place,” said Hackett, who worked with Hawk-Eye while managing England’s referees.

“Yes, as some are pointing out, a video referee could have helped in this instance. But the better solution is actually far simpler.

“If the technology is there, why not use it?”

Hackett absolved assistant referee Scott Ledger of any blame for the midweek incident.

He added: “Scott is a top operator and, in running the line at the far side, simply could not see if the ball was over.

“No assistant, however adept, could be sure of making an accurate decision from that position.

“He has my sympathies, as do Everton most of all, of course.

“Out of this comes an opportunity to remove this area of uncertainty.”